The Critical Path Method (CPM)

This method article describes the Critical Path Method (CPM) also in comparison to other project management methods. This article describes how and when to use CPM methods, moreover discusses the advantages, disadvantages and applicability of the method. CPM is a step-by-step project management method for process planning. CPM was developed in 1956 by the E.I. du Pont de Nemours Company a major chemical plant construction firm in USA. By focusing on tasks duration CPM identifies the minimum length of time needed to complete a project and helps define the most critical tasks that needs to be accelerate in order to complete the project within the available time. Furthermore CMP allows you to identify slack time (free resources) and can be used to monitor if the project follows the time schedule. To identify the critical path through the project you can either use CPM or Program, Evaluation, Review and Technique (PERT). With available accurate task time estimate CPM is the preferred method. PERT is used in projects with inaccurate time estimates by applying three time estimates (earliest, latest, average) to create the expected time. CPM is therefore the most simplified method

Books

• Woodhead, James M. Antill & Ronald W. "Critical Path Methods in Construction Practice". John Wiley & Sons, Inc. (1990).

• Fondahl, John W. "A non-computer approach to the critical path method for the construction". Stanford University. (1962).

Links

• Verma, Eshna. "What is Critical Chain Project Management?". Simplilearn (2009): http://www.simplilearn.com/what-is-critical-chain-project-management-rar68-article

• Dr. Larry Bennett. "The Ultimate Guide to the Critical Path Method". Smartsheet (2015): https://www.smartsheet.com/critical-path-method

Videos

• Dr. Zelbst, Pamela. "Critical Path Method and PERT explained". (2015)

Critical Path Method and PERT explained by Dr. Pamela Zelbst